In North Carolina, the district attorney for each district is responsible for prosecuting all criminal cases (and infractions, discussed below). Criminal cases are heard in both District and Superior Courts in North Carolina.Trials in District Court are always held before a judge. Looking for local rules and forms? Established in 1931 as the Institute of Government, the School provides educational, advisory, and research services for state and local governments. Dismissal: If the evidence against you is weak, the charges may be dropped. North Carolina uses a sentencing scheme called Structured Sentencing. This provides judgees with guidelines for sentencing criminal offenders. Determine your voter registration eligibility and view guidance based on your status with the North Carolina criminal justice system. (2) A hearing on a petition for a writ of habeas corpus under Chapter 17 of the General Statutes.